Celebrating Black History Month

02/01/2022 

Dear campus community,

This February, SUNY Cortland is celebrating Black History Month with a series of 24 events that recognize the achievements of Black Americans.

These events include presentations, lectures, panel discussions, podcasts, social gatherings and more. Topics vary from historic figures, education, art, music and culture as well as issues that are specific to learning and life on our campus. There is something here for everyone and I hope you are able to join as many of these events as possible.

A full schedule of events is posted online. I encourage you to consult the university calendar for updates throughout the month and to practice COVID-19 safety, including wearing face coverings, during any in-person meetings.

I would like to thank Distinguished Teaching Professor Seth Asumah, chair of the Africana Studies Department, for leading the organization of these events.

Black History Month is important for us to come together and explore the journey of Black Americans. As we look back through this history, we must also carry the lessons we learn into the future and apply them to our own lives. Continuing to learn and understand this history is one step on the path forward, both as a nation and as a university, toward peace, justice and inclusion.

I hope you will join us and share in the expertise and passion of your fellow students, faculty and staff during Black History Month.

All the best,

Erik J. Bitterbaum

President